The pharmacological action of the drug Arava

The drug belongs to the basic anti-rheumatic drugs and has antiproliferative (prevents excessive formation of various cells), immunomodulating, immunosuppressive (suppresses the immune system) and anti-inflammatory action. Since lymphocyte proliferation is one of the basic stages in the development of rheumatoid arthritis, the drug Arava is one of the main treatment for this disease.

Arava slows the progression of joint damage (the active form of rheumatoid arthritis), and reduces the severity of symptoms.

Arava tablets may be taken with food. The maximum concentration of drug is determined by 1-24 hours after a single dose. Arava is excreted in the feces and urine. The half-life of the drug is very long (up to 2 weeks). In patients on hemodialysis, the elimination of the drug faster (due to the displacement of its association with proteins).

Studies on the pharmacokinetics of the drug Arava patients with signs of hepatic insufficiency and in patients younger than 18 years of age have not been conducted.

Indications Arava

Basic therapy of active forms of rheumatoid arthritis (to reduce the symptoms and delay the development of joint damage);

The drug is also Arava is contraindicated in patients with severe hypoproteinaemia (reduced serum protein).

Men receiving Arabia should be aware of its negative impact on spermatogenesis. They should also be aware of the need for a reliable means of contraception (a toxic effect on embryogenesis because of the possible effect of the drug on the sperm of the father).

According to the instructions Arava is contraindicated in persons under 18 years of age due to insufficient clinical research.

Use of the drug during pregnancy and lactation

Before starting treatment with Arava in women of childbearing age should exclude pregnancy (especially if the woman does not use a reliable means of contraception). Patients should be informed about the toxic effects of the drug on the developing fetus.

According to the instructions Arabia, women are breast-feeding is contraindicated its use as animal studies have shown that the drug and its metabolites pass into breast milk.

Dosage and administration of the drug Arava

According to the drug treatment should be under the supervision of a doctor who has experience of its use in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

According to the instructions Arava therapy begins with a single application of a loading dose (100 mg) for 3 days. Then, a maintenance dose - rheumatoid arthritis 10-20 mg once a day, psoriatic arthritis 20 mg per day. The therapeutic effect is noted Arava 4-6 weeks and increases in the next 4-6 months.

Arava tablets are taken by mouth, they should drink plenty of fluids. Ingestion of reviews Arava has no effect on absorption of the drug.